Government to introduce new bill to rename public universities
The government is set to introduce a bill in Parliament seeking to rename the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) and several other public universities across the country.
The Minister of Education, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, made the announcement during the inauguration of the Governing Councils of CKT-UTAS and Tamale Technical University (TTU), which was previously renamed Dr. Abdoulaye Salifu Technical University under the former administration.
Mr. Iddrisu explained that the initiative reflects a shift in policy under the current government regarding the naming of public institutions. He emphasized that the proposed changes are not intended to disregard the contributions of individuals who have previously been honored.
“This move is not to diminish the legacy of any statesman or undermine the contributions of individuals to national development,” he said, assuring that those deserving of national recognition would continue to be honored appropriately.
He further stated that broad consultations were underway with traditional authorities, academics, alumni, student groups, and civil society to ensure the renaming process is inclusive and aligned with national values.
During the ceremony, Prof. Stephen Kendie, Chairman of the CKT-UTAS Governing Council, thanked the President for the trust placed in the council and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing ongoing challenges, including numerous legal disputes facing the university.
“We must resolve these cases to foster a peaceful academic environment,” Prof. Kendie said.
Other members of the council include Prof. Albert Luguterah, Vice Chancellor of CKT-UTAS; Dr. Gregory Abe-I-Kpeng, representing the University Teachers Association of Ghana; Mr. Fatai Usman, for the University Senior Staff Association; and Mr. Richard A.A. Akumbas from the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools.
Additional members are Mr. Barnabas Kofi Waja, representing students; Mr. Huaru Alhassan Marifa from the Alumni Association; and presidential nominees Prof. Godwin Awabil, Prof. Agnes Apusiga, and Mr. Amos Alemiya Ayuure.
